Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammad, Ghana’s Minister of Environment, described galamsey as an act of terrorism. The government is committed to combating illegal mining without exception, promoting public awareness and implementing supportive measures for former miners. Concurrently, the Minister of Lands announced the revocation of licenses issued after December 2024, aiming to restore integrity within small-scale mining endeavors.
Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammad, the Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, has described illegal mining, known locally as “galamsey,” as an act of terrorism. He expressed the government’s commitment to deal decisively with individuals engaged in these activities, emphasizing that no one will be spared, regardless of political ties. “We’ll not spare anyone involved in this evil including our NDC members caught in this act,” he warned.
At a news conference in Accra, Dr. Muhammad stated that every Ghanaian has a role to play in combating illegal mining, framing it as a moral obligation to safeguard Ghanaian lives. This statement follows an interim report from an 18-member Working Committee established to review small-scale mining regulations and formulate a strategy to address illegal mining effectively.
The Minister underscored the complexity of the illegal mining issue, remarking that it demands a multifaceted response. “This fight we’re waging is a moral fight. It is a fight for our survival as a people taking into consideration the dangers that are ahead of us if we fail to act,” he noted. He assured that the government would support individuals formerly engaged in illegal mining through alternative livelihood programs.
Dr. Muhammad called on civil society organizations and media entities to raise public awareness regarding the hazards associated with galamsey, stressing the importance of adhering to best environmental practices to protect water bodies and forest reserves.
In related news, Mr. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, announced the cancellation of all small-scale mining licenses issued after December 7, 2024. A Technical Review Committee has been formed to audit and validate small-scale mining licenses within a two-month period. “Any licensee that fails to comply with the direct to validate the license will automatically lose it,” he stated.
In conclusion, the Ghanaian government, led by Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammad, is steadfast in its fight against galamsey, viewing it as a serious threat to national integrity and safety. By involving all citizens in this moral battle, the government aims to eradicate illegal mining while ensuring the protection of the country’s natural resources. The announced measures, including license revocations and support for former illegal miners, reflect a comprehensive strategy aimed at restoring environmental balance and sustainability in the mining sector.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
